PISA 2022. Predictors of the mathematics achievement of Spanish students in Secondary Education

Abstract

Mathematical competence is fundamental for active, participatory and engaged participation in the 21st century, and for facing the challenges of a globalised society. This study aims to analyse the simultaneous effect of a set of predictors on the mathematical competence of Spanish students who have participated in PISA 2022. The sample consists of 28,792 Spanish students (14,465 boys, 50.24%; 14,327 girls, 49.76%), from 935 schools. Two questionnaires are used to collect data: one for students and one for school principals. A hierarchical linear model is used according to the three levels presented by the data (Level 1 = Students, Level 2 = School and Level 3 = Autonomous Community). At the first level, sex, socio-economic background, family cultural level, mathematics anxiety and self-efficacy is included; at the second level, the socio-economic background of the school; and at the third level, GDP per capita. The results show that girls experience more anxiety and less self-efficacy in mathematics than boys. The socio-economic background of the students, the cultural level of the family, mathematics anxiety and mathematics self-efficacy are significant predictors of mathematical competence. At school level, socio-economic background has an impact on achievement. These findings suggest the need to strengthen collaboration between school and family, as well as to provide specific training for teachers on how to address socio-affective feelings towards mathematics.